8 of the best beach cities in Spain

Take your pick of these varied urban beauties scattered around the country’s 3,000-mile peninsular coast.

Beaches in Spain can get packed everywhere during the high season, from July to August , so for the best chance of solitude and space, it's worth travelling in the quieter shoulder periods.

Cádiz sits on a sunny peninsula bathed by the Atlantic , an hour’s drive south of Seville .

Playa de la Victoria extends for almost two miles south of the historic centre to meet wilder, dune-backed Playa De la Cortadura .

Gijón fronts the roaring Bay of Biscay on the western coast of Asturias .

Just east, Playa de Poniente is another enticing half-moon to relax on, while the surrounding coastline is dotted with wild beaches, including Playa de Rodiles , set within a eucalyptus-shaded nature reserve. A special stay: Just steps from Playa de Poniente , El Môderne is a distinctive art deco building restored as a moodily styled boutique hotel. Loft ’ rooms have private terraces. From 116 ( 98 ). To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller ( UK ) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only)..